Humility is instilled in us through the realization of having our expectations and notions crumble before us. Why is it, at times, we are most surprised by the people we least expect?
In Jesus’ day, if there were a people who should’ve had faith, it was Jesus’ own people, yet they were lost and in need of rescue (Matthew 9:36). Ironically, on one occasion, a Centurion seeks out Jesus that he might heal his servant. On the way to the Centurion’s home, Jesus is told, “Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you come under my roof… but only speak the word, and let my servant be healed” (Luke 7:6-7). Even Jesus is surprised by the Centurion’s faith, saying, “not even in Israel have I found such faith” (v. 9).
While many of his own were only trying to put him to a test, others from outside Israel’s fold were putting their utmost faith in him. The barriers that separated Jesus’ heritage from the rest of the known world weren’t insurmountable to Jesus. What he was doing in his earthly ministry, when observed without prejudice, produced genuine faith in him. Faith was fostered by those one might least expect. That’s the amazing power of Jesus!
